Hotel de Russie

"Rocco Forte Hotel De Russie is a prestigious hotel in Rome, known for its excellent service and has earned a Michelin Key." - The MICHELIN Guide

"Surrounded by the lush greenery of the secret garden of the Rocco Forte Hotel de Russie (One Michelin Key), the spa is an exclusive retreat focused on rebalancing physical, emotional, and mental energies. This 600m² wellness center is as popular with international guests as it is with locals, offering a wide range of services including a hydrotherapy pool, sauna, Turkish bath, and fully equipped gym." - The MICHELIN Guide

"T+L readers’ favorite hotel in Rome is also a hit with our experts." - Travel + Leisure Editors

"From the moment the top-hatted doorman ushers you into the classic-modern space by former Valentino interiors whiz Tommaso Ziffer and Rocco Forte Hotels director of design Olga Polizzi, the sense of being in the foremost place to stay in town is as sharp as the Campari sodas served at the bar. The 120-room hotel just off Piazza del Popolo mixes Art Deco–tinged nods to Rome’s classical past with jazzy homages to Picasso and ballet legend Nijinsky, who stayed here in its previous incarnation. They’re commemorated in signature suites, as is Giuseppe Valadier, the architect behind the palazzo’s terraced garden. This is being restored for the hotel’s 20th anniversary—one of several refreshes that include a health-oriented lightening of the mod-Med menu. The kitchen is overseen by chef Fulvio Pierangelini, who also curates the food at the Stravinskij Bar, which fills with glamorous Romans come aperitivo time." - Maresa Manara

"How did it strike you on arrival?Like all Rocco Forte Hotels, Hotel de Russie is immaculate. The leather armchairs gleam, the silver mirrors glisten, the bunches of lilies on the marble coffee table are placed just so. In-house designer Olga Polizzi’s striking design touches are everywhere, from cream stone sculptures to scarlet and blue pop art hanging above the marble staircase. Nice. What’s the crowd like?Film stars and models tend to stay here, drawn to the expansive gardens, luxurious rooms and timeless design. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.The newly renovated Nijinsky Suite is one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever stayed. First of all, it’s enormous, consisting of a big living room and two bedrooms so large you could get lost in them. Floor-to-ceiling windows let in the light, and the private outdoor terrace has views over Villa Borghese and the hotel’s secret garden. Suite guests can pop open bottles of complimentary welcome Franciacorta on a terrace, then book one of the four Roman experiences on offer – ranging from a 4-hour private guided tour of Rome to an Italian aperitivo or wine tasting in the suite. Oh, and did we mention they’ll unpack and pack your bags, and give you a babysitter to look after the kids for 3 hours? Be warned, you’ll never want to leave. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?The king-sized bed is super comfy, and the pillows are perfectly firm. The sheets are wonderful, too—soft and silky and smooth on your skin. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?Frankly, we’d love to take the whole suite home with us, but the nifty packing and unpacking service magics one of the major pains of traveling away—meaning there’s more time for cocktails on that terrace. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.The bathrooms are all about Carrera marble all the way, with soft bathrobes and slippers. The products are Forte Organics, the hotel’s new cosmetic line—made with organic ingredients, including olive oil and water from Sicily’s Madonie Regional Natural Park. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?W-Fi is strong and fast—perfect for watching movies on a laptop, not that you'll need it, thanks to the selection of newly-released films on the television. Room service: Worth it?Room service covers everything—you can even buy an international adaptor for $26. There’s a five-star meal to be had on the menu, starting with slivers of Parma ham and cantaloupe followed, perhaps, by prawns with Mediterranean vinaigrette and a tiramisu to finish. Staff: If you could award one a trophy, who gets it, and why?No specific names, but everyone was utterly lovely, from the smiley receptionist who gave us tips on where (and how) to park in Rome, to the charming bellboy who carried our bags. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.The spa is small but peaceful, with a good selection of treatments (the pedicure is extra good, and lasted weeks). There’s a well-equipped gym and there are some electric bikes for exploring the city. The recently restored 19th-century garden, too, is a highlight. This is where  hotel guests including Picasso and Russian composer Stravinsky, took inspiration. It's the perfect place for a stroll, or just to sit, before heading to (aptly named) Stravinskij Bar for an aperitivo. Bottom line: worth it, and why?The Rocco Forte family have outdone themselves with this one—it’s well worth a visit for the elegant and spacious rooms, manicured gardens, and outstanding service." - Maresa Manara